Automated x-ray fluorescence analysis

Abstract

A method for classifying a sample based upon a complete spectral analysis. The sample is illuminated with penetrating radiation and an initial complete spectral analysis is performed based on spectral resolution of resonant fluorescence lines emitted at the surface, or within the volume, of the sample. If the initial complete spectral analysis yields the composition of the sample to within acceptable limits, analysis values are output to the user. Otherwise, further analysis, informed by the results if the initial complete spectral analysis, is performed.

1. A method for classifying a composition of a sample of unknown composition, the method comprising:
 illuminating a portion of the sample with a first beam of penetrating radiation, the first beam characterized by a first pre-specified set of beam settings; 
 detecting x-ray emission emanating from the sample; 
 illuminating the portion of the sample with a second beam of penetrating radiation, the second beam characterized by a second pre-specified set of beam settings; 
 performing a complete spectral analysis of the x-ray emission; and 
 categorizing the composition of the sample as one of predominantly non-metal and predominantly metal based on the complete spectral analysis. 
 
     
     
       2. A method in accordance with  claim 1 , wherein the step of performing a complete spectral analysis includes employing a Fundamental Parameter algorithm. 
     
     
       3. A method in accordance with  claim 1 , wherein the step of categorizing the composition of the sample includes determining whether the sample is one of predominantly non-metal and predominantly metal. 
     
     
       4. A method in accordance with  claim 1 , wherein the step of categorizing the composition of the sample is followed by a step of subsequently analyzing the sample contingent upon the categorization. 
     
     
       5. A method in accordance with  claim 1 , wherein the step of performing a complete spectral analysis of the emission further comprises determining whether a concentration of chlorine exceeds a specified fractional weight composition. 
     
     
       6. A method in accordance with  claim 1 , wherein, based on a result of the step of categorizing the composition of the sample, the method comprises a further step of reanalyzing the emission using a set of analysis parameters corresponding to the sample composition category. 
     
     
       7. A method in accordance with  claim 6 , wherein the step of reanalyzing emission is based, additionally, upon information provided by a user. 
     
     
       8. A method in accordance with  claim 6 , further comprising a step, prior to reanalyzing, of illuminating a portion of the sample with a further beam of penetrating radiation, the further beam characterized by a further set of beam settings. 
     
     
       9. A method in accordance with  claim 8 , wherein the step of illuminating a portion of the sample with a further beam of penetrating radiation includes inserting a filter in the further beam. 
     
     
       10. A method in accordance with  claim 9 , wherein the filter includes at least one of iron, cobalt, and nickel.